The Fragonard Perfumery at Grasse - a delight for the senses
If you are fond of perfume, and you happen to find yourself in Provence, in the south of France, then don’t forget to visit the Fragonard Perfumery at Grasse, as you will find it to be a real treat for the senses.
People often wonder why the area around Grasse developed as a perfume region, and they put it down to the abundance of lavender, and other delightfully scented plants, growing in the fields and gardens of Provence. However, it seems that the perfume industry developed as a direct result of the leather industry. In the 1500’s, Catherine de Medici from Florence settled in the area, and she was one of the first ladies to adopt the fashion of wearing elegant gloves, finding that they also serve the practical purpose of protecting one’s hands from the harsh rays of the sun. However, the leather of the gloves had a, well, leathery smell, which was not quite to the liking Catherine and her friends. And so the fashion developed for scented gloves, and hence the perfume industry started to develop in this area.
The Fragonard Perfumery has been established in Grasse since 1926, and is housed in one of the oldest factories in the city. The different displays show you how the manufacure of perfume takes place at all its different stages. The perfumery also has a historical section showing artefacts related to the perfume industry through the ages.
Going round the Fragonard Perfumery at Grasse is an enjoyable and interesting experience, and I definitely recommend it as part of any trip to Provence.
Filed under: Factory visits, France
